Child neurology--from my point of view

My own way to pediatric neurology started with basic training in pediatrics at a time when neurology barely existed, but certainly not pediatric neurology. By chance, I happened to be involved with a family with interesting muscular symptoms and this awoke my interest in neurology in general, and particularly in muscle diseases and genetically determined diseases. I am deeply indebted to American pediatric neurology, since I got a wonderful chance to study pediatric neurology in the United States, particularly in Boston. To work within this field has always given me pleasure. The combination of strictly logical neurologic reasoning and the way to reach it through improvising and playing with the child is particularly exciting. For many of these diseases we have no definite cure, and some of them cause the death of the child, a serious situation for all involved. In these situations, I have come to know many parents for whom I feel a deep respect, affection, and admiration. Children and parents have taught me much, particularly the necessity of always being at eye level with the patient or the conversation partner, both literally and figuratively.